But while Clarkson has yet to comment on the disclosure, a legion of his fans have taken to the internet to start a petition called 'BBC: Bring back Clarkson'.

The petition, started by a member on Change.org called Guido Fawkes almost three hours ago, states: "We the undersigned petition the BBC to reinstate Jeremy Clarkson. Freedom to fracas. #BringBackClarkson"

Fans of the popular BBC2 car show also took to Twitter to share their support for Clarkson, using the hashtag #BringBackClarkson.

Some tweeted that the show would not be the same without the outspoken star, with others even fearing that the programme will now come to an end.

"TopGear without Jeremy Clarkson? You might as well cancel the entire show #BringBackClarkson," one person tweeted.

"@JeremyClarkson @BBC_TopGear Top Gear won't be the same without Jeremy. #BringBackClarkson," said another.

"#BringBackClarkson and no one can replace a legend like @JeremyClarkson," tweeted one Clarkson supporter.

"Top gear cannot die... #BringBackClarkson," posted another fan.

CHANGE.ORG

The petition has reached over 10,000 supporters

The planned instalment of Top Gear will not be broadcast this Sunday, a spokeswoman for the BBC confirmed.

The spokeswoman said: "Following a fracas with a BBC producer, Jeremy Clarkson has been suspended pending an investigation.

"No one else has been suspended. Top Gear will not be broadcast this Sunday. The BBC will be making no further comment at this time."

This Sunday's episode was set to feature classic cars such as a Fiat 124 Spider, an MGB GT and a Peugeot 304 Cabriolet.

It was also set to star former football star Gary Lineker in the show's traditional 'star in a reasonably priced car' challenge.